txerrors

Txerrors, short for transmit errors, refer to failures that prevent data from being transmitted successfully by a network interface. They are typically reported by network interface hardware or drivers as a statistic (often labeled tx_errors or TX_ERRORS) and are part of the interface’s error counters. TX errors focus on the transmit path and are distinct from receive errors, which concern incoming data.

Common causes of transmit errors include physical layer problems such as damaged cables, loose or dirty connectors, or electromagnetic interference; duplex or speed mismatches between the network interface and the switch or router; faulty hardware in the NIC or switch port; and buffer overruns or driver/firmware issues that disrupt the transmit queue. In older Ethernet configurations, transmit collisions or jabber can also contribute to TX errors. In wireless environments, transmit errors may arise from poor signal quality or interference that affects transmitted frames.

The presence of TX errors can lead to reduced throughput and higher latency, as failed transmissions may trigger retransmissions or higher-layer corrections. They can also reflect broader problems in the link, such as hardware faults or misconfigurations, rather than persistent end-user traffic losses.

Troubleshooting TX errors typically involves checking physical connections (cables, connectors, and port status), verifying that speed and duplex settings match on both ends, testing with alternate cables or ports, and inspecting device logs and statistics. Replacing suspected hardware, updating drivers or firmware, and reducing interference are common remediation steps. Some systems provide detailed per-issue counters in tools or logs to help identify the exact cause.